The Uttar Pradesh government has announced plans to transform Agra into a "solar city," following Ayodhya's lead. The initiative includes installing 2,000 solar streetlights and 161 rooftop solar power plants (over 25 KW each) on government buildings. Newly constructed Sulabh toilets will also feature solar panels. In the first phase, Agra will see 600 solar streetlights and 50 mini masts. Aligned with the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, the scheme targets 1.3 lakh rooftop solar installations in Agra. The program offers subsidies, providing 60% support for systems up to 2 kW and 40% for 2-3 kW systems, aiming to make solar energy affordable and reliable.
A spokesperson for the state government in Uttar Pradesh recently announced the government's plan to make Agra a 'solar city,' similar to Ayodhya. Plans are in place to develop all districts within the Agra division as solar cities, with streetlights and government offices powered by solar energy. Agra city is set to receive 2,000 solar street lights, and 161 rooftop solar power plants over 25 KW will be installed on government buildings. Solar panels will also be added to newly built Sulabh toilets.
NK Singh, project officer and Agra Division in-charge at the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Agency (UPNEDA), stated that steps are being taken to cut electricity use and protect the environment. In the initial phase, Agra will see 600 solar streetlights and 50 mini masts installed. Singh noted that rooftop solar power plants have already been set up in 9 government offices in Agra and 6 out of 315 offices in Mathura, with 223 government offices in Firozabad and 198 in Mainpuri also equipped with solar power systems.
This initiative aligns with the PM Surya Ghar Yojana, which promotes solar energy generation in UP. The scheme involves installing rooftop solar panels on houses to provide reliable electricity and lower power bills. Singh stated that a target has been set to install 1.3 lakh rooftop solar power plants in Agra under this program.
The PM Surya Ghar Yojana, launched in 2024, aims to provide free rooftop solar electricity for one crore households in India. This initiative offers up to 300 units of free electricity each month by supporting rooftop solar installations, primarily for middle- and low-income families. Homeowners can receive a government subsidy of 60% for systems up to 2 kW and 40% for systems between 2 to 3 kW, making it affordable for households to shift to solar energy. Additionally, low-interest loans are available to help cover the installation costs.
In Ayodhya, similar solar projects were introduced to support local energy needs, aligning with the government's broader vision of sustainable development. Ayodhya's solar city plan has set an example for cities like Agra, where solar installations aim to reduce electricity costs.
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